US School Teaches Men: Caregiving and Household Chores

In Columbia, USA, there’s a unique initiative called Bogotá’s Care School for Men. Its mission is to challenge traditional gender roles by teaching men essential household chores and caregiving skills. Led by Felipe Contreras, this program aims to shift the perception that caregiving and domestic responsibilities are solely the domain of women, while men are expected to focus on work outside the home.

Men attending the school learn practical tasks such as changing diapers, soothing babies, washing dishes, and even ironing clothes. These skills are taught through workshops held at universities, workplaces, and other community venues, where participants, like those at Sanitas University, engage hands-on with caregiving activities.

The idea for the Care School emerged during the COVID-19 pandemic, when many women fell ill from the burden of housework. Men like Ferley Sáenz, who felt disconnected from his son Martin, realized the importance of stepping up at home. After attending the Care School, Sáenz became more involved in his son’s daily life, from helping with homework to attending school events.

Initially modest in scale, the Care School has seen significant growth. In 2022, thousands of men attended in-person workshops, completed online courses, or viewed educational videos on caregiving.

Juan David Cortés, the program’s leader, emphasizes that the school not only teaches practical skills but also aims to redefine masculinity by showing that men can be nurturing and actively participate in family life. He believes it’s crucial to dismantle outdated stereotypes that confine men to certain roles and responsibilities.

Overall, Bogotá’s Care School for Men is making a profound impact by promoting equality in household duties and fostering healthier family dynamics.

Re-reported from the article originally published in She the People.